Makhalla - A traditional self-government body in Uzbekistan

A traditional self-government body known as Mahalla is the most important civil institution in modern Uzbekistan. Based on centuries-old traditions of the Uzbek people, during the years of independence mahalla's activities have been officially formalized and it was given broad authority by the state to solve effectively many socially significant tasks.

Uzbeks live for thousands of years collectively in the communities. This is a unique mechanism of self-governing, which is rooted into people's values and historically established community relations.